Self-closing device for doors
According to Approved Document B of the Building Regulations 'Fire Safety', a self-closing device is:
|
A device that closes a door, when open at any angle, against a door frame. NOTE: If the door is in a cavity barrier, rising butt hinges (which are different from the self-closing device mentioned above) are acceptable. |
Fire doors serving an attached or integral garage to a dwellinghouse should be fitted with a self-closing device. Other fire doors in a dwellinghouse need not be provided with self-closing devices.
There are a number of circumstances where buildings other than dwellinghouses should have fire doors fitted with self-closing devices, such as; dead end portions of common corridors, a common corridor that connects two or more storey exits, common corridors more than 12m long that connect two or more storey exits, doors giving access to external escape stairs and so on.
However, where these might present an obstacle to occupants, such as within normal circulation spaces, or giving access to bedrooms, alternatives might be considered, such as fire-swing door closers or hold-open devices. This is because self-closing devices might be rendered ineffective by constant use, or might be wedged open or removed.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Embedding AI tools into architectural education
Beyond the render: LMU share how student led research is shaping the future of visualisation workflows.
Why document control still fails UK construction projects
A Chartered Quantity Surveyor explains what needs to change and how.
New planning reforms and Warm Homes Bill
Take centre stage at UK Construction Week London.
A brief run down of changes intentions from April in an onwards.
Reslating an ancient water mill
A rare opportunity to record, study and repair early vernacular roofs.
CIOB Apprentice of the Year 2025/26
Construction apprentice from Lincoln Mia Owen wins this years title.
Insulation solutions with less waste for a circular economy
Rob Firman, Technical and Specification Manager, Polyfoam XPS explains.
Recycled waste plastic in construction
Hierarchy, prevention to disposal, plastic types and approaches.
UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard V1 published
Free-to-access technical standard to enable robust proof of a decarbonising built environment.
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
Why talking about prostate cancer matters in construction.
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch up for free, subscribe and share with your network.
The Association of Consultant Architects recap
A reintroduction and recap of ACA President; Patrick Inglis' Autumn update.
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.